Mary Nell Gibbs Rich was born October 19, 1931 in Adamsville, TN to the union of the late Colis and Zora Martin Gibbs. She was united in marriage to Robert Joe Rich in December of 1949. Mr. Rich preceded her in death on July 21, 2022. These two were blessed with two children, Barbara and David. Those who were fortunate enough to gather at Mary Nell’s table knew without a doubt she loved to cook. She loved to fix a meal for her family to gather at her house so she could spend time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her great-great grandchildren. Mrs. Mary Nell was a faithful member of the Wayne Furnace Church of Christ. When her health allowed, she was sure to attend every time the doors were open. Through the years at Wayne Furnace, she grew close to many, often loving them as though they were her own. Mrs. Mary Nell departed this life for her eternal reward on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 in Florence, AL making her stay in this life some 94 years, 9 months, and 9 days.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Barbara Staggs and husband Gary of Waynesboro, TN; She is also survived by those who lovingly call her Granny or Granny Mel, Hollie Staggs of Waynesboro, TN; Canetha Frost and husband Jeremiah of Decatur, AL; Robert Blake Staggs of Waynesboro, TN; seven great grandchildren, Alexzandria “Allie” Bratcher, Sloan Matthews, Triston Scot Smith, Hayley Staggs, Landon Jordan Frost, Blayley Staggs, and Kasin Dunnivant; and six great-great grandchildren, Wyatt Bratcher, Bexlee Bratcher, Jaxx Hall, Willow Hall, Kaizen Matthews, and Alaric Matthews
In addition to her parents and husband of almost 73 years, she is also preceded in death by her son, David Lynn Rich; one granddaughter, April Rich; one brother, Benny Gibbs and a sister, Louise Hopper
Visitation with the family will be on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM at Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation Chapel
Funeral services will begin at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at Bates-Love Funeral and Cremation Chapel with Cary Crews and Hollie Staggs officiating. Interment will follow in the Waynesboro Memorial Gardens.
